This is B.C.-based author K.L. Denman’s second title in Orca Currents, a novel series aimed at pre-teens reading below grade level. Although it’s not as original and quirky as Mirror Image, Denman’s first offering, Rebel’s Tag will engage readers easily.

Fourteen-year-old Sam Connors, the title’s rebel, is, at best, a moderate insurgent. He loses track of time while playing street hockey, fibs, sneaks out of the house occasionally to “roof” (visit neighbourhood rooftops), and leaves modest graffiti tags on the rooftops he visits. His longtime best friend and roof-climbing partner is smart, savvy, girl-next-door Indi. Their motivation is innocent, rooted in the sense of magic and freedom they experience aloft.

Sam’s story takes off when his long-gone grandfather resurfaces in Sam’s life, explaining his absence and hoping for reconciliation. Shortly after hearing from Grandpa Max, Sam goes roofing alone for the first time, has a spray-painting mishap, is caught, and finds himself at the mercy of upset homeowners. The lesson he learns from the incident helps Sam resolve his anger toward his grandfather.

Denman fills her story with lots of hooks. Grandpa Max contacts Sam through letters that, like scavenger hunt notes, send Sam to different destinations. At each place, Sam meets one of Max’s friends. At each meeting, Sam receives an object or advice, and another letter. With each new letter, Sam must decide whether to ignore or respond to his grandfather. Ultimately, Sam’s experience is bittersweet.

In keeping with its intended audience, Rebel’s Tag involves short chapters, large print, double-spacing, short sentences, lots of kid vernacular and dialogue, and a utilitarian cover. Its curriculum-friendly content features non-stereotyped characterization, pithy quotes, a positive male-female friendship, and the protagonist’s emotional and moral growth. It’s no small feat to engage and hold the interest of reluctant readers. With Rebel’s Tag, Denman does the job.